Capturing the Magic of a Wedding First Look

Weddings are inherently filled with extraordinary moments of love and anticipation, and one moment that has gained popularity in recent years is the "Wedding First Look." This special pre-ceremony photo session between the bride and groom is an intimate and emotional experience, allowing couples to share a private moment before walking down the aisle. In this blog, we'll delve into what a Wedding First Look entails and provide some helpful tips on how to incorporate it into your own dream wedding! :-)

What is a Wedding First Look?

A First Look is a heartfelt, staged moment where the bride and groom see each other for the first time on their wedding day! Traditionally, couples would wait until the ceremony to lay eyes on each other, but the First Look allows them to share this magical experience privately, away from the eager eyes of their guests. This enchanting encounter is often arranged by the wedding photographer and captures the raw emotions of the bride and groom as they catch a glimpse of one another in their wedding attire for the first time on their special day!

Why do we wait till the Ceremony to see each other?

A big part of determining whether to do a "First Look" or not can come with understanding where the tradition came from.  Traditionally, marriages were arranged, so if the Bride or Groom saw each other before the ceremony, and either didn't like the other, it was likely they wouldn't show up to get married.  As this happened, it was thought to be "bad luck" to see each other before the ceremony as it became likely that the ceremony would not happen. 

To negate this problem, the Bride & Groom were kept apart and in fact, Brides began to wear veils (to cover their face) throughout the ceremony.  Once the ceremony ended, the Groom was given approval to lift the veil and kiss his new wife (whatever she looked like).  Since couples often now know who they are marrying and WANT to marry each other, this old tradition/superstition doesn't hold the meaning and value it once did.

Why Consider a Wedding First Look?

Apart from the undeniable allure of experiencing an intimate moment with your beloved before the ceremony, the Wedding First Look has several practical advantages. Here are a few to consider:

1. Emotional Connection: The First Look allows couples to express their emotions openly in a peaceful setting, sharing a genuine moment of connection without any distractions.

2. Nerves and Stress Relief: Seeing each other before the ceremony can help alleviate nerves, as it offers an opportunity for the couple to relax together and support one another before the day proceeds.

3. Maximizing Photo Opportunities: A Wedding First Look provides ample time for your photographer to capture precious moments between the two of you, allowing for exquisite images without a strict timeline constraint.

4. Enjoying your Reception: By having a First Look, you can spend more time with your guests during the cocktail hour or reception, rather than being whisked away for extended portrait sessions after the ceremony.

How to Do a First Look at Your Wedding?

First and foremost communicate that you want to do a first look at your wedding with your photographer, videographer, and coordinator! These vendors are integral parts in ensuring that you have a first look that goes smoothly so telling them that you’d like to capture this sweet moment before your ceremony is the most important step to doing a first look at your wedding!

After telling your vendors that you’d like to do a first look, your photographer and/or videographer will choose a location that will allow them to capture this moment as privately and aesthetically as possible, while your coordinator will create your timeline with the necessary timing to have a perfect first look!

Photography: Brandon Smith Photography | Venue: Halekulani Resort

All in all, the "first look" at one's wedding is a truly magical and intimate moment that captures the essence of love and anticipation. It allows couples to share a private and emotional experience before the ceremony, setting the tone for the rest of the day. Whether it brings tears of joy or nervous excitement, the first look creates a connection that is cherished forever. It is a time to reflect on the journey taken together and to celebrate the commitment made.

As the couple stands there, gazing into each other's eyes, surrounded by the beauty of their chosen Hawaii backdrop, they are reminded that this is just the beginning of a lifetime filled with love, happiness, and unforgettable memories!

XOXOXO

(A Perfect Day)

A Perfect Day Hawaii, Wedding Planner, Hawaii Wedding Planner, Hawaii Weddings www.APerfectDayHawaii.com